These Are the Best Lip Balms for Chapped Lips—Tried, Tested, and Truly Worth It

There’s something undeniably graceful about well-moisturised lips. They complete your makeup look, they speak with confidence, and, quite frankly, they feel amazing. Yet here in the UAE, where air conditioning is relentless and desert heat is unforgiving, lip care is more necessity than luxury.

While we’ve all reached for the nearest balm during a dry spell, not all lip balms are created equal. Some coat the lips without treating them. Others over-promise and under-deliver. To save you from trial-and-error, we’ve rounded up the most indulgent and effective lip balms that truly work to heal, hydrate, and elevate your pout.

From cult classics to clean, conscious formulations, these are our editor-approved picks for the best lip balms for chapped lips—each one worthy of a permanent spot in your beauty bag.

Why Do Lips Get Chapped in the UAE Climate?

Unlike the rest of our skin, our lips don’t have oil glands, which makes them especially prone to dryness. Add in high sun exposure, indoor AC, caffeine consumption, and low water intake, and you've got the perfect recipe for peeling, flaking lips. But hydration alone isn’t enough—what you really need is a formula that seals in moisture while repairing the skin’s barrier.

Our Top Picks for the Best Lip Balms for Chapped Lips

1.    Saidia Lip Balm by Caeli – AED 210

Nourishing, Plant-Based, and Soft-as-Silk

If you’re the kind of person who appreciates small-batch skincare crafted with intention, this little pot will steal your heart. The Saidia Lip Balm by Caeli is the kind of clean beauty find that whispers rather than shouts—delivering results without needing fanfare.

Made with a lush blend of marula and moringa oils, this balm feels like velvet on the lips. Shea butter wraps your pout in moisture, while pomegranate sterols work behind the scenes to lock it all in. The texture is indulgent without being sticky—think smooth, weightless comfort that wears beautifully under lipstick or solo.

It’s perfect for the minimalist who wants their skincare to work hard, smell divine (naturally), and feel like a treat.

📍 Find it online at wearecaeli.com

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm – AED 45

Hydration and Repair for Everyday Comfort

For those who seek a simple yet effective lip balm, The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm delivers precisely that. Infused with nourishing squalane and amino acids, this balm provides deep hydration and helps repair dry, chapped lips, making it a staple for anyone who values minimalism and efficiency in their skincare routine.

The lightweight formula glides on effortlessly, leaving lips feeling soft and smooth without any sticky residue. Whether you're looking for a daily lip-care solution or a quick recovery after a day in the elements, this balm is both practical and effective.

Tip: Apply a thin layer for subtle hydration, or layer it on for extra moisture when your lips need a little more TLC.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm – AED 115

Everyday Glamour with a Hint of Shine

This isn’t just a lip balm—it’s a moment. Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm is the perfect blend of skincare and gloss, delivering hydration with a whisper of shine. Ideal for everyday wear, it feels indulgent yet effortless.

Formulated with shea and murumuru seed butters, this vegan balm melts into the lips, instantly smoothing lines and dryness. The soft vanilla scent feels like a warm hug, while the sleek packaging is a joy to pull out of your bag. For those who want hydration that doubles as a statement, this one’s for you.

Bonus: It layers beautifully with lip colour and looks equally chic on its own.

Dr. PAWPAW Original Balm – AED 40

Multi-Tasking Magic for On-the-Go Hydration

Sometimes, simple is best. The Dr. PAWPAW Original Balm is a quiet achiever—affordable, fuss-free, and surprisingly versatile. Made with fermented papaya extract, aloe vera, and olive oil, this balm hydrates lips while soothing irritated or cracked skin.

We love its utility: dab it on cuticles, elbows, or even eyebrows in a pinch. The consistency is smooth and gentle, making it a great pick for sensitive skin or anyone who wants a low-maintenance hero product in their handbag.

It’s the kind of product you never knew you needed—until you run out and realise you can’t live without it.

5 Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 – AED 85

Essential Care for the Modern Minimalist

When it comes to sophisticated skincare, Aesop’s Protective Lip Balm SPF30 offers the perfect balance of practicality and indulgence. Enriched with a blend of botanicals, this balm not only nourishes and hydrates your lips but also provides SPF 30 protection—making it a must-have for daily use.

Its subtle citrus scent adds a refreshing touch, while the smooth, non-greasy texture ensures long-lasting comfort without the need for constant reapplication. For those who value efficiency and elegance, this balm is a standout in your skincare routine.

Pro tip: A small amount is all you need for beautifully soft and protected lips throughout the day.

How to Choose the Right Lip Balm for Chapped Lips

When navigating the world of lip care, keep these key factors in mind:

• Climate Matters: In a region like the UAE, go for balms that do more than just hydrate—they should seal in moisture against dry air and heat.

• Ingredients to Love: Shea butter, marula oil, moringa oil, pomegranate sterols, vitamin E, beeswax, and aloe vera.

• What to Avoid: Alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and petrolatum (unless it’s been triple-purified).

• Texture Talk: Opt for something rich but non-greasy during the day, and thicker, cushiony options for night repair.

There’s something quietly powerful about soft, cared-for lips. They need no filter, no lipstick—just a touch of thoughtful care. Whether you gravitate towards a glossy finish, prefer matte-friendly moisture, or lean into clean beauty rituals, the right lip balm can elevate your entire look and feel. In the end, lip care isn’t just about solving a problem—it’s about adding a moment of self-love to your daily rhythm.

 Hero Image Courtesy: Instagram/@summerfridays

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